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I have an energy hog condenser(3 1/2 ton) that is over 20 years old. In the summertime here in Palm Desert, CA my electric bills are over 300 dollars a month for a home of 1300 sq ft. During the hottest hours of the summer day it runs constantly and rarely shuts off. I own a rental three doors down and had the entire split system replaced last year but could not afford two systems at the same time. In the interest of saving some money, and since we rarely use our heater, my question is whether it would make any sense to replace just the condenser with a more energy efficient one, say 10 or 12 seer? If yes, would I need to replace the evap coil as well? Your professional advice would be much appreciated. Any recommendations for condenser brands?
Thank in advance for your help.

53 Feet

Never would I recommend replacement of any condenser without the indoor coil replacement, but especially if you are trying to get a higher efficiency system.
You will lose the effective efficiency of the condenser if the indoor coil does not match the same efficiency rating.

Also the air flow and the existing furnace has a lot to do with the actual efficiency that you will get out of any system.

I will have to agree with 'Frame', even though I'm not a big one on just replacing systems. But if yur goin to spend the money for the a/c part, you will money ahead to replace the furnace.
And yu will ensure your higher efficiency ( even in heat)

Originally posted by 53fleet Thanks for your responses! I guess the next question is cost/benefit of 10 seer system vs. 12 seer or 13 seer?
Thanks again for your help.

As of January 23 next year, the lower SEER units will no longer be made and will no longer be available for sale once existing stocks are depleted. Parts for lower SEER units will still be available, but as manufacturers ramp up for the 13 SEER mandate, they are likely to produce less replacement components (such as compressors and coils) for lower SEER equipment.

Concurrent with this is the ongoing phase-out of Freon 22 refrigerants. Much if not most of the 13 SEER equipment will use R410A, which for better or worse appears to be here to stay as the replacement for R22. Although R22 will not stop being produced until 2020, there are mandated reductions in R22 production up to that year. That means this refrigerant will only become more expensive as it becomes less available, with an ongoing reduction of R410A in price as it becomes more widely used.
Also, no equipment using R22 can be manufactured past 2010.

You might get a price break on 10 SEER equipment now, but if you plan to remain in your home for some time, the 13 SEER with R410A seems like a better investment.

I agree with hound, you might also consider taking advantage of low interest rates and just have it all done now. Check with the local utility and see if they are currently offering any rebates on high efficiency equipment.

You might find the higher efficiency along with a rebate is a pretty wise investment versus doing the minimum now and having to replace it all next go around when you are closer to a fixed income.

53 Fleet

Personally, I don't think a system above 13 Seer is worth the money. And though the 410 system are the new 'thing', they haven't been tested enough for me to recommend them.
Besides, R-22 will be around longer than this new unit will last you, and then maybe, the next changeout you do can be with a better alternative.
I also firmly believe that once the 410 bandwagon reaches its peak, there will be several drop-in replacements for R-22, as there is now for R-12 systems ( no longer have to change over to 134A)

But, of course, this is my opinion only. And, at least on this site, I think, an unpopular opinion.